The Odyssey At Mother Road

The spouse and I took advantage of being on Mother Road Theatre Company's email list for 2 for 1 tickets to The Odyssey, the group's first production. Here's a mini review and an exhortation to support local theater.

The sets were imaginative, the puppetry inspired and the atmosphere generally fun - even the detention center milieu. The always solid Vic Browder made a great Odysseus, and I love Kristin de la O's bravery in multiple roles. Bill Sterchi is one of ABQ's finest actors, and his multiple roles - detention center guard, Odysseus' crew member were fine indeed.

Criticisms include the play being too long (too much Cyclops, too much Circe) and there being too many musical numbers. Call me an old fogey, but a 10:45 end time is late, late late. Trim a few songs, and cut the Cyclops/Circe scenes in 1/2 and you've got yourself a solid show.

We were puzzled by the inclusion of a Muse, who sang a lovely song, but really didn't add much to the production.

Worth the time/money? Yes, because it's rare you get to see as many fine local actors on stage at once as at Mother Road.